When I meet with congregational leaders, as we talk about the challenges the congregation is facing, and resources or trainings they might need, at some point I usually ask the question, Where are you finding unexpected joy in your congregation this year?

I attended my first General Assembly in 1998. I had only been a member of my congregation for 2 years, and had just completed my first year as the Director of Religious Education (DRE).

Are you looking for the unexpected joy in your community?

Many UUs love to read. If reading is a passion for you, there are many great books out there on the topics of antiracism, anti-oppression and multicultural issues. Two great resources for these books and discussion guides for deeper engagement are Beacon Press and the annual UU Common Read.

Covenants have been at the foundation of Unitarian Universalism in the United States since 1648. What many don’t realize is that the covenants not only were important between the members of the individual congregations, but also among the congregations.

It's the old adage two steps forward, one step back - every time we think we're making progress back to "life as it was" something happens to push us back into that waiting zone.

Last week I skimmed over an article that talked about how Americans love to be the heroes but never want to do the long term work to make lasting change. And I wondered about that. Was it true? And then the storm of this past weekend happened.

I am tired. Are you tired? I'm tired and cranky and just want all of this craziness to stop.